Open Invasion Raxus You Had Me at "Hutt Council"

[Dar'baal]

Spoiler: Music

Song

Death enabled / no restriction on numbers or force size yet​

The Hutt Scion Dar'baal had heard the offer from his uncle and was not going to pass up the opportunity to take a seat on the Hutt Council. He was too far from Kessel to provide support but his fleet of ships and his army of warriors were close enough to Raxus to make a play for the planet. That was fine. Let someone else save Kessel and earn their place as Daimyo. Dar'baal already controlled a trade hub outside of standard Hutt space which he was very proud of.

The slug sat onboard his personal star yacht, the Idiot's Array. He inhaled deeply from his hookah, happy to have a buzz while he conquered the capital of the Empire. Aids provided status updates for the Hutt Scion amidst the lap of luxury. He half expected other Syndicate forces to arrive. The chance to join the Hutt Council was not something to ignore. But even if Dar'baal was alone in his conquest then it would be all the more savory. The slug like crime lord licked his wide mouth in anticipation.

There were numerous planets with a similar name in the Raxus system. But Dar'baal had his sights set only on one world, the capital. Waiting in the holds of the Hutt War Fleet were hundreds of Houk High Tops armed to the teeth. With strength that rivaled the Wookiees of Kashyyyk they had the potential to devastate any military forces they got close to.

<"The High Tops are eager to shed blood, exalted one. They are becoming quite rowdy."> A protocol droid spoke in the Scion's ear. They earned a deep bassy laugh in return.

<"Good. There is much blood to spill. These fools think they can break a peace treaty without repercussions. We will show them the cost of breaking a deal.">

Spoiler: OOC

I imagine the Empire has a sizeable fleet but that does not mean this has to be a naval battle. At this time there is no restriction on imperial numbers defending since this is the imperial capital. NPC numbers and purpose can be discussed between writers but Dar'baal has been afforded more than a single corvette, which is typical of a baseline rank 1 PC. Let me know if you have any questions or concerns. Let's have fun!

 

[Dar'baal]

The Idiot's Array was a fine work of Ubrikkian design and descended through the atmosphere of Raxus smoothly, joined by fully ladened landing craft. The fleet Dar'baal led was doing well at combating the Imperial defenses in orbit while also striking key anti-ship artillery. This allowed the Houk High Tops to begin a direct attack on the surface without losing vast numbers in the process. But the battle was far from over.

It would be intense fighting in the streets. Block by block the Hutt forces had established a foothold that was only growing stronger by the minute. It was in the center of this beachhead that the scion would land and move on Raxus's capital building.

Dar'baal slithered onboard their personal air sled. The vehicle was large enough to hold Dar'baal's mass alone but was joined by several dewback skiffs with a compliment of bodyguards to provide adequate defenses. The scion kept their neuronic whip close at hand along with their hookah pipe which he continued to pull on every now and again.

<"Establish a perimeter around the capital building and call my uncle's interior decorators. I will want to give this place a makeover once I have secured it."> A bit of spittle flew from his mouth as he spoke but was caught in the breeze as the air sled moved forward towards the Hutt's objective. He could practically taste victory and it was making the slug salivate.

Spoiler: OOC

No defense has been mounted as of yet. 96+ hours since initial post.

 

[Ina'al'ena]

The Hyperion raced through the blue realm of hyperspace as Naale paced the bridge. She had been given emergency orders to divert from her standard patrols to Raxus due to an attack by the Hutts. Apparently, the capital's defense forces were inadequate. But the Chiss was nervous for a different reason: Raxus was her home planet. Her family was down there. That was her world. And as the corvette reverted to realspace just out of range of the Hutt guns, she saw just how much danger Raxus was in. Several corvettes, a few battlecruisers…kriff, this was bad. "Helm, give me all power. Stand by for maneuver one, targeting the Cal class. Launch Hunters. Guns, stand by for maneuver four, targeting Cal class." The orders were given in a calm voice, completely inappropriate for the situation. She was certainly scared, but her service had taught her how to hide fear. Suddenly, the three TIE Hunters appeared on the tactical, positioned in a wedge formation that shielded the cargo doors from sensor view. As all this was happening, the Hyperion closed the distance. "Three seconds to range," a man said nervously.
@Darasuum (Yay, I got the blasted post right this time!)

 

[The Lieutenant]

He was there the moment the strike began, The Lieutenant sitting back and enjoying a stout as meat grilled on the barbecue and smoke simmered from it's top. Across the lawn sprawled a table with roughly eight chairs spread around it with Pazaak Cards dealt as a few of his troops leisured with smiles. Then came the bombardment, key facilities struck first as the systematically assault worked toward disabling their defenses. Klaxons sirened across Raxus' surface and mass hysteria engulfed the masses. And yet, The Lieutenant simply stood at the sight and nodded toward his troops that had gathered in his home. It wasn't clear whom had declared war, but the Disparaged stood ready to meet it.

Valor, as he was known off duty, had come to know the Disparaged as family, having rose up through its ranks to its Commander, one of their own leading the helm. But to truly understand the Disparaged, one only needed to research its history. The Disparaged started out as a band of misfits, filled with mostly the undisciplined and those one strike away from dishonorable discharge. But as it grew, so did it's numbers, and now were filled with enthusiasts and the unwanted. And within it, each had not only found a home, but a family that extended beyond the horizon. Loyalty and Honor were found in each heart despite the unruly jacket each held documented in their files.

As the Imperial Defenses met the arrival and bombardment of the Hutt's Grand Army, Raxus quickly turned from the peaceful Imperial Capital into a backwater war zone in only a matter of moments as the reality of the surprise came compromised. Every able Imperial body, whether on duty or off, began to fight back as the landing parties began to descend. It was utter chaos to the untrained eye, but there was a method in the madness of the Imperial War Machine, and it would soon bring about the infamous Imperial Order. Soldiers arrived upon the streets, as did all-terrain vehicles and tanks that let loose volleys of mortars and shells, all in might to meet the Hutt's deceitful ploy. If they wanted Raxus, they would have to earn it.

Draped in his armored spacesuit, with his heavy repeater in hand, The Lieutenant stood before the one thousand able bodies of the Disparaged with a welcomed grin as each cheered in unison at their commander and the tales they would enthrall. For the Disparaged already knew what he would say, but he said it anyways. "We are the outcasts, the hopeless, the Disparaged. With each fight, we prove our might and our love for the Empire and the Emperor. Before us is an unholy alter, begging for the souls and carcasses of the Slugs and their Syndicate. Let us not disappoint."

The Lieutenant raised his rifle high, the Disparaged following in unison as cheers bellowed from the depths of their hearts, mimicking a might legion of demons. It was time to meet the legions of the Hutts head on, and if the Emperor willed it, they would soon be singing songs and drinking limitless alcohol in the afterlife. Such was the promise of souls lost upon the battlefield whom died a warrior's death. Soon the Disparaged would march.

Spoiler: Tags:

@Darasuum

 

[Kyp]

Having long ago pledged his loyalty and service to the Hutt Cartel, Kyp was, of course, at service to the great slugs during these trying times. Beings higher up than him (and with lots more credits) had paid him to assist Nor'baal's nephew Dar'baal.

The Lepi Mandalorian had dealt with the elder of the two Hutts plenty of times and has no idea what to expect from the younger. This would prove interesting - hopefully in the "that was a fun battle" kind of way and not the "Good God, the nepo Hutt almost got us all killed" way.

The space battle had gone fairly well - Hutt forces were able to punch through the Imperial defenses enough to get a landing zone established. Kyp's own V38 Starfighter was able to join the landing and he quickly hopped out of his craft and established command of a Houk squad who'd lost their sergeant during the fighting. He was marching them down the laser-filled city street, trying to go building by building to establish a clear path for Hutt artillery and vehicles to the capital. It was tough work so far.

 

[Dar'baal]

<"My lord, the Imperial dogs have reinforcements dropping out of hyperspace. Likely more of them are on the way."> One of the Houk officers relayed the updates that the Syndicate fleet was noticing. Dar'baal had predicted such a thing would happen eventually and it would definitely make things difficult in the long run. But for now the battle had made it to the surface of the planet.

<"*Buuuurp* The fleet has their orders. As a reminder, tell them that each and every ship they claim will earn them a their body weight's worth in credits. We must win this battle or we get nothing."> Dar'baal knew that many lives would be sacrificed but it would motivate his forces to fight that much harder. Additionally, the coffers of the imperial capital were likely filled to the brim with valuables and credits so as long as this was a victory then the Hutt would be able to reward his subordinates. He wanted to add something.

<"My lord there is more..."> The mighty Houk paused. For such a tall warrior to hesitate told of how much they respected, or feared, their superior. The scion's yellow slit pupil eyes regarded the subordinate with patience. <"...there is a legion of enemies putting up more resistance than the others. They're called the Disparaged, sire."> Dar'baal looked away from the officer as his mind tried to recall any reputation this Imperial unit.

<"They are no match for your High Tops though right?"> He wanted to hear the warrior confirm his analysis but would continue since it did not really matter. They would fight regardless. <"We have mandalorians and the best mercenaries that credits can buy. Do not make me regret my dynasty's investment. Now...give me some good news.">

<"Along with the exterior perimeter, we have secured most of the capital building. There are still imperial representatives that have locked themselves inside with a small contingent of security.">

Dar'baal nodded and took a drag on their hookah followed by an exhale of smoky breath that quickly fell behind the floating entourage of hover craft. <"That is good news. Well done. I will arrive shortly and we will use these representatives."> It could be pointless to have these so-called officials used as hostages but worst case scenario they would be organic shields. <"Tell the vanguard to use non-lethal weaponry. I want them alive.">

@Interdictor @Fantasy Liver @Mythos

 

[Ina'al'ena]

Naale watched as the Hutt fleet began to open fire. "Helm, evasive action," she called, and felt the corvette lurch as her orders were obeyed. Fortunately, the enemy ships seemed to be holding back. In fact, they were mostly using ion fire. Uh-oh. Although that was in some part good, since the enemy ships had more turbolasers than ion cannons, it was also bad, since a few solid hits would fry most of the Hyperion's systems. However, her crew managed to evade most of the first enemy salvo, leaving only a few bolts to splash against the corvette's shield. "Shields holding at eighty percent!" a man said, the disbelief and hope evident in his voice. Naale, though, knew what he didn't: the Hyperion was just outside of most of the fleet's range, leaving only two of the corvettes and the one Cal class to spatter her with fire. Now, before the rest of the enemy could close the distance, it was time to display the firepower of an Imperial corvette. "Maneuver one, go. Prioritize heavy turbolaser batteries and cycler cannons." The Chiss lieutenant's voice echoed throughout the bridge, as calm and collected as ever. The Hyperion, nose pointed toward the Cal class, fired four ion blasts and three concussion missiles straight at the Hutt ship, aiming for the cyclers and heavy cannons. The moment the projectiles were clear of the launch tubes, the corvette turned hard to the left, slicing through space like a sword. Once the turbolasers had a clear field of fire, they unleashed a full salvo of eight bolts. As the course of the ship steadied, the Imperial warship fired another turbolaser salvo of another eight rounds. The turbolaser bolts, like the ion rounds and concussion missiles, targeted the large cycler cannons and heavy turbolaser batteries. "Helm, bring us back to our original facing. Is the package ready?" An ensign pressed one last button, then looked up at her. "Yes sir, the package is ready."

Spoiler: TL;DR and OOC notes

The Cal class and two corvettes fire a few turbolaser and ion rounds at the Hyperion. The Hyperion conducts evasive maneuvers, avoiding most of the enemy fire, then responds with four ion blasts, three concussion missiles, and sixteen heavy turbolaser bolts. Immediately following this, the ship begins turning back to the right to line up its nose with the enemy ships again. The TIE Hunters hold formation with the corvette the whole time.

As a note, I was forced to guess what the reaction of the Hutt fleet would be, since Darasuum didn't detail that in his post. I finally decided that, at least for now, the fleet is mostly using their ion cannons (interspersed with a few turbolaser shots) to disable or scare the Imperial corvette, since Dar'baal is paying extra to capture enemy ships. If this is a problem, let me know and I'll edit it.

@Darasuum @Fantasy Liver @Mythos

 

[Kyp]

Kyp wasn't entirely sure if the street he was currently fighting was considered Main Street on this world normally. But, for all intents and purposes, it was Main Street now as it was a street wide enough to fit Hutt tanks and support vehicles and provided a clear line to the capital building. Unfortunately, this fact did not go unnoticed by either side and much of the ground fighting was concentrated on the explosive road.

Kyp put down the last of the Imperials that had taken up position in a hastily-abandoned warehouse and finally was able to take a moment to breathe and reload. Fighting building to building wasn't doing anybody any good but the clash of Disparaged forces and Houk High Tops meant that they were currently in a bit of a standstill on Main Street here. He looked around at his Houk squad, who were taking potshots at Disparaged forces out the window.

"If we can knock out those enemy tanks, we can find a way to punch through." Kyp said, almost to himself as he looked around outside, trying to come up with a plan. Was there anything inside that could help him? Some powered-down loadlifter droids, empty duracrete boxes, a couple hovercarts, some security cameras, and a few burnt out cigarra ashes in the corner.

Not much.

Kyp made his way over to a desk where one datapad remained intact. It looked as though much of the automated functions of this warehouse were ran through this computer. Kyp used his armor's computer spike function to plug into the datapad. He typed away, changing up a few of the automated functions.

"Keep firing. I don't want anyone coming into this building until I'm done. " he ordered his Houks.

 

[Magnus Thel'riss]

The attack had come out of nowhere, turning what had begun as a peaceful day into something fresh out of a nightmare scenario. The Imperial capital world was under attack by enemy forces that seemingly manifested from thin air. Though the Imperial space defenses were present, they were seemingly punched right through by invading forces, which had landed and begun an inexorable march through the main city streets. Defenders were being eliminated en masse, and Imperial forces were being rerouted from elsewhere in the Galaxy to return and defend the capital city. However, that would not help them in the current moment, and such reinforcements would only come into play if the Imperial defense forces could hold out.

This was quite a situation to be thrust into almost literally fresh out of graduation, though Magnus had not joined the Imperial Knights expecting to ease his way through life. By pure chance, he found himself in the vicinity of the capital building at the start of the attack, and by pure serendipity he had thought to rush inside at the first sounds of attack. 'It would be a priority target,' he had reasoned, and it seemed as though his intuition was correct. Hutt forces (or so he was coming to understand over the comm chatter) were taking the capital building with disconcerting ease, leaving only a few sections in Imperial hands. Magnus's force-based vision washed over the huddled Imperial representatives within, taking in their fear with a contemplative scowl.

This would not do...he had hoped to await reinforcements in the capital, but those filthy Hutts could not be allowed to simply seize Imperial representatives...nor the building itself. The representatives could be used as hostages, and it would be humiliation on a galactic scale if the Hutts could hoist them around like a captured banner. Very well then, Magnus would just have to hope that he would be enough, along with the remaining security forces present. "Imperial Security forces! Rally to me! If we stay here, the enemy will take the capital and stain it with their disgusting Hutt filth! We will not be trapped like rats awaiting the slaughter!" Magnus placed his helmet on his head and brandished one of his two lightsabers, igniting the silver blade as he made his way to the door. "For the Empire!" With that, Magnus would step out into the once-peaceful capital grounds, ready to defend his chosen home against the filthy Hutt invaders. Hopefully a singular Imperial Knight supported by the remnant security forces would be enough to turn the tide...or at least hold it back long enough for reinforcements to arrive.

Spoiler

Just a nice little introduction post. Also lol Imagine your first mission being to defend the capital.

@Darasuum @Fantasy Liver @Interdictor @Mythos

 

[The Lieutenant]

One Thousand Disparaged Troops marched through the city alongside tanks and all-terrain vehicles, engaging the Hutt Militants at every turn. It was a hellish firefight spreading across the metropolis of Raxus's Capital as both sides fought equally to gain the upper hand and turn the tide, more so for those that called Raxus home upon the Imperial side. It was more than war for them. It was survival. Standing at the front was the Lieutenant, his urban camouflaged Spacesuit a white glaze against the grayed pavement as he opened up bursts against the Houk High Tops he encountered. As the commander of the Disparaged, it was his role to lead them in all aspects, even into battle.

"L-T, we've got some of the Slug's men barricaded in the buildings up ahead, but seems the bulk of their forces are focused on the Capital Building." One of his men called out. In response, he issued a single order. "Teams Omega and Delta, converged on the Houk's housed up. Teams Charlie and Alpha, you're back up."

With order issued, four teams broke off from the bulk of the Disparaged as they marched onward toward the Capital Building and @Darasuum while the four that broke off turned their sights upon @Fantasy Liver and his Houk Horde. While many of the Disparaged would fall this day, barely a hundred had since the assault began. This meant that roughly five hundred sentients now marched on the Capital in it's defense. Would it be enough? It had to be. It needed to be. And each of the Disparaged would concur even if their life was forfeit. That was the rally call of those under the Lieutenant. Their song would be sung in the end.

Suddenly, a comm was managed to be open through to someone inside the Capital Building, @Xan, and the Lieutenant was quick to express himself. This is the Lieutenant of the Disparaged. We're 30 clicks south-south west and coming in hot. Is there any way to access your location? Are there injured?"[/i]

The Lieutenant held no clue whom they had opened a channel up to, but the were definitely Imperial. His man had sure of that. But at least they knew the Disparaged were on the way, and most Imperialists knew that when it came to the Disparaged, they fought to the last man to achieve their goals. Which is why, whilst broadly known as a Battalion of Misfits, they were even more widely known as the first ones in and the last ones out. Whomever stood on the other end would know that only utter destruction would prevent rescue.

The Lieutenant and five hundred of the Disparaged march on the Capital Building and contacted Magnus through encrypted Imperial Comms whilst nearly four hundred march on Kyp and his Houk High Tops, both possessing tanks and all-terrain vehicles.

Spoiler: Tags:

@Darasuum @Xan @Fantasy Liver @Interdictor

​

 

[Merian Sere]

Raxus.

They’d come for Raxus.

A move so deranged as to be unexpected. Slugs were never known for their intelligence, that was true, but the fact that they threw the bulk of their fleet at the Imperial capital without first whittling down the Imperial war machine or capturing perimeter worlds defied reason. What would they do when all the Empire’s fleets converged from the galaxy over and smashed their mercenary helmsmen to bits? The door would be wide open for a defenseless Nal Hutta to go the way of Korda Six.

Merian could hardly wait for the day.

She’d been in the new Imperial Knight headquarters when the attacking ships broke into orbit. A short ride away from the capital, just the time to don her armor and make it with the cavalry to greet the Hutt’s vulgar landing parties. Knight-Captain Meera Tumi took half the knight present, a clean half-dozen. Merian took the others.

As the transport brought them closer to the assailed city, she couldn’t help but feel the weight of the tremendous shoes she had to fill. Varyn (@Phoenix), Kalique (@LadyRen). General Dram (@Alhon), Commander Baize (@Raydo). Kellan (@Tic), with Seraph Fleet, still stationed on Raxus. Altair (@Sreeya), the one who remained. The one the Empire owed its very existence to. She wondered if she’d see him in the fighting.

Not for long. She couldn’t dwell on it.

Over her armor, covering her left shoulder, Merian wore the white half-cape that had become her signature look. What better day to mourn? She’d humbled the Hutts once wearing the same. She’d faced the Killik hordes and the armies on Dubrillion. Whatever crude mercenaries the Hutts could mobilize had long since stopped impressing her. When the tide turned, they wouldn’t wait for death over Syndicate credits.

“Knight-Captain Tumi, in position.”

Merian’s transport stopped, as close as it could safely get to the fighting.

“All Imperial forces, Knight-Captain Sere, reinforcing from Imperial Knight headquarters. We’re taking back the streets. Over.”

Tanks. The Hutts brought tanks.

Seven lightsabers activated as one. Half a dozen knights at her back, Merian set her sights on Houk brutes and the buildings they’d taken around the main street.

With the Knights joining the fray, their days were numbered.

@Darasuum @Fantasy Liver @Interdictor @Mythos @Xan

 

[Ina'al'ena]

The Hyperion's shots seemed to have the desired effect on their target. Although the missiles were shredded apart by laserfire before they could make contact, the ion and turbolaser rounds made contact with the ungainly Cal class. The first cycler cannon sparked with blue energy as the ion bolts fried internal systems, and turbolaser blasts slammed against the shields. Although the battleship escaped with only minor damage to the one cannon, it began to back away as the corvettes moved up to engage. Naale knew this wasn't going to work. The enemy had more ships and more guns. She needed to do something useful. The Chiss bit her lip, frowning as an idea formed in her mind. What she was planning, if it went wrong, could get her court-marshaled or worse. Still, it was better then getting exterminated by a bunch of Hutt warships.

"Helm, bring us into upper orbit, parallel to the surface." The ensign hesitated, but finally obeyed. The corvette maneuvered so that the hull was parallel to the surface of the planet, and the ship was approximately over the combat zone. "Excellent. Guns…Base Alpha Two. Saturate the entire occupied area, but avoid our troops and critical infrastructure." The coldness of her voice was completely opposite to the turmoil inside her. She was about to fire on the kriffing Imperial capital. She imagined her family down there, wondering where their daughter was. Based on the murmurs and gasps from the bridge crew, she guessed they were thinking similar things. Despite all of the doubt, however, the next moment the Hyperion's turbolasers were pummeling the occupied section of Raxus. Naale swallowed a lump in her throat as she watched her home planet be struck by round after round from her ship, under her command. A Base Alpha Two was one of the less extreme types of orbital bombardment, meant more for dislodging enemy troops then destroying buildings. That fact, Naale noted, wasn't very comforting. She shook her head and released a barely-audible sigh. "Comms, order the Hunters to provide close air support to the ground troops." A pause. "Prepare the shuttle for ground assault. I will be leading the attack."

About five minutes later, Naale fiddled with her blaster carbine for the umpteenth time as the shuttle made its descent. She didn't have assigned body armor, so she'd grabbed a suit of Imperial Assault Corps armor from the armory that fit well enough. Around her, other stormtroopers nervously shifted as the sound of turbolaser fire thundered just outside the hull, causing ominous vibrations. Then the shuttle began to slow, and a moment later landed gently on the surface. The hatch swung open, and Naale hopped out, followed by the rest of her troopers. They had landed a little behind the main line of combat, but Naale could still hear the sounds of combat a little ways off. Looking to the right, where the sounds were coming from, she spotted pillars of smoke and the occasional explosion. In the background, the Hyperion's turbolasers provided an ominous backdrop as they fell from the sky like supernatural lightning. "Advance to the front," Naale ordered, in the same emotionless voice she used when commanding from the bridge. The two squads followed her as they neared the line of battle.
@Darasuum @Fantasy Liver @Mythos @Xan @Volene

 

[Dar'baal]

The Capitol Building of Raxus Secundus drew near. The Houk High Tops that made up the vanguard were already stationed at the ready outside and attempting to get in with various tools with limited success. As the Syndicate forces closed in, one of the guards reported to the Hutt Scion. The main force of the Disparaged was still at a distance of three kilometers to the south, most of them reportedly were still on foot. Additionally a force of Imperial Knights had landed within sight of main street behind him at least a kilometer away. This gave Dar’baal and his units a sufficient perimeter for the time being and arrived in short order at the Capitol Building onboard their repulsor craft flying over and through the streets of the planet’s Capital.

To Dar’baal’s surprise, the outer doors of the Capitol Building opened from the inside. Standing out at the doors of their objective was the visible white lightsaber. <”Secure the entrance!"> The scion spat his order as he simultaneously opened fire on the lead Imperial Knight ( @Xan ) 6 times with his air-sled mounted light blaster cannon. He slowed his sled down to keep a safe 100 meter distance from the lightsaber jockey, knowing full well they were adept at close quarters combat. The Hutt’s neuronic whip remained closed tightly in their other hand.

A light blaster cannon was enough to punch through the thickest of infantry armor and he suspected the powerful weapon was more than a lightsaber, or its wielder, could handle. Should shots miss their target, they would still impact the door behind them and run the risk of damaging the portal and allow future syndicate forces the freedom to storm into the building. The Houk High Tops charged ahead and added their stun blaster weaponry to the storm of withering plasma in an effort to neutralize the capitol’s security forces. Those guards would clash with the infantry that bore a strength similar to wookiees. Should they get any closer they would quite literally tear them apart.

Spoiler: TL;DR

Dar’baal learns of the imperial’s various positions.

At the appearance of Knight Thel’riss, Dar’baal fires 6 light laser cannon blasts at them from his airsled which run the risk of damaging the door behind him if they should miss.

The Houk High Top NPCs shoot stun blaster bolts at the imperial security forces and charge to close the distance with Dar’baal bringing up the rear at a distance of 100 meters

@Xan @Fantasy Liver @Volene @Interdictor @Mythos

 

[Kyp]

With his spike, it was a relatively simple matter for Kyp to strip control of the hovercarts from droid control to manual. Next up was to up the safety speed limit from 10 kilometers an hour to 100.

Kyp hopped on the hovercart containing the most boxes and cleared some space for him and a Houk pilot to get on. They now had a rather quick platform to jet to the Capitol with. The duracrete crates provided a stable perimeter of cover for the Lepi gunman to duck behind as he jetted across Main Street to the Capitol - the cart's railings preventing the crates from tipping over into the street.

As the hovercart down the street, it took up position near Kyp's Hutt boss and parked about fifteen meters to Dar'baal's left. Also clocking in the Imperial Knight as the primary threat, Kyp took aim and fired at Magnus' torso.

Behind him, Kyp's squad of Houks had taken inspiration from the Lepi and were racing up to the Capitol - firing from their own semi-secure hovercart platforms.

TLDR: Kyp uses a hovercart with crates to catch up with Dar'baal and fires a shot at Magnus.

@Darasuum @Xan @Interdictor @Mythos

 

[Magnus Thel'riss]

Magnus gathered most of the remaining security forces in the capital building and began to move towards the entrance, flanked by the men who were charged with defending this building with their very lives. There could be arguments over his authority to lead a sortie another day, but he assumed the others followed because they shared his assessment; if they remained in the capital building and waited, it would only worsen the severity of the overall battle. There was good news however, in the form of a communication from the Lieutenant of the Disparaged. @Mythos While Magnus could not claim to know what that unit was off the top of his head, he was aware that a Lieutenant normally commanded up to one thousand men.

That was good enough information for him, considering the dire odds he was currently facing. "Lieutenant, this is Imperial Knight Magnus Thel'riss. We have injured throughout the capital, but I'm leading the Imperial Security forces in a sortie to expunge the enemy from the capital grounds." Or at least, Magnus intended to attempt to remove the Hutt forces from the capital area. Whether or not that was possible was a different story, but at the very least he should hopefully be able to buy time for other Imperial forces to arrive. "The enemy is approaching from the western side-" Magnus might have added more, but another broadcast caught his attention. Knight-Captain Sere @Volene had joined the fray, and almost as importantly, she had said "we" when announcing her intentions to take back the streets.

That meant others of the Order were with her, and that meant there was opportunity. Each Imperial Knight would be worth a good number of common troops, and that was important when every man seemed to count. Speaking of counting, Magnus stepped out to meet the Hutt forces properly, and was astounded by what he saw. Not the Houks, though they would be problematic enough in due time...there was the Hutt leader themselves, standing just behind their ranks! @Darasuum This changed the situation somewhat, though it did so mainly by making his objective crystal clear. The Hutt fired off lasers from what appeared to be a light-cannon weapon, and Magnus made a split-second decision to dodge out of the way of the blasts. In fact, he leaped to the side, bringing his lightsaber back into position just in time to deflect a shot from what he guessed was a Mandalorian @Kyp by the armour.

"All forces, the Hutt is at the western capital steps!" @Interdictor

He assumed (or more accurately hoped) that the doors would be able to withstand at least one volley of blaster fire, while he thought of some way to either protect them or neutralize the Hutt's fire. While he was tempted to go charging in, Magnus swiftly decided that it would be a suicidal option at best. No, his best option as he could see it would be to help the Imperial Security forces engage the Houks, as the defenders had two advantages. Their defensive position was the main one, meaning that the Houks would have to approach into withering fire to engage with their bestial strength. For now, Magnus would remain focused on his defenses, deflecting shots as well as he could without leaving the general vicinity of the security forces. If the Houks chose to engage in melee, he would stand his ground and fight them in close quarters combat.

Regardless, the second advantage (or disadvantage, depending on one's point of view) the defenders had was time, as Magnus understood the current situation. They just needed to give the Imperial forces time to reach the capital...

And therein was the objective: survive.

Spoiler

Magnus leaps out of the way of the light blaster cannon fire, deciding to chance the state of the doors. He then deflects the shot from Kyp, before assuming a defensive stance.

 

[Merian Sere]

Merian and her knights swooped towards the Hutt backline like hawks, stuck as the invaders were between the forces from the outside and the Capitol building’s defenders. Farther up on main street, Knight-Captain Tumi did the same against the Hutt tanks, hoping to disrupt their advance and the supply of troops and armor to the front, leaving the main Hutt force ripe to be surrounded.

The Houk grunts that composed the rear guard were no match for the phalanx of Knights unleashing flurries of Force and saber on them from behind their crimson armor. Especially with a Knight-Captain leading them.

It wasn’t long before they were in range of the siege.

To her surprise, one of the Hutts was personally in the fray. Exposed. Strange how he didn’t share his kind’s penchant for cowardice and self-preservation. At once an unexpected sight and a dream come true. He’d pay for the others.

Unfortunately for him, he couldn’t keep a proper distance between both knights on opposite ends for long. As he focused a barrage in direction of the Capitol, Merian closed in from behind.

A dozen meter away, Merian unleashed a mighty Force push to rip the Hutt away from his air sled, intending at once to rob him of his mobility and his blaster cannon. From behind, the push would knock him a significant distance towards Knight Magnus. Once reduced to crawling, whip-wielding scum, it wouldn’t be long before the oversized slug caught a stray bolt or five.

Or a lightsaber.

“Target the Hutt!” she shouted over comms. “Finish this!”

Orange blade in hand, ready to defend when some of the defenders inevitably turned around, she closed in some more.

@Darasuum @Fantasy Liver @Interdictor @Mythos @Xan

 

[The Lieutenant]

With the bulk of the Houk Forces falling back to the Capital Building, including the target, @Fantasy Liver upon which the near four hundred marched, the Disparaged would hasten their pace. A Patriotic Roar would resound and the Imperial Crest would glisten from their armor as they charged toward the apparently retreating Forces and take as many as they could as the distances would lessen and the duo Forces of the Disparaged would flank the south and western sides.

"Copy. We won't be but a minute." The Lieutenant would reply to the Knight just milliseconds before the resounding of his rifle sent bursts of fully automatic rounds into the dying screams of a Houk soldier. "Help is on the way."

But now would be the hardest of pushes for the Disparaged and they understood the likely costs that would continue to befall them. War was a harsh mistress, even for those whom put their heart and souls into it's existence. If losses remained above the five hundred he led, then today would be a victory he would gladly claim. But anything lower and it would be a defeat either way. The Disparaged were Spec Ops, minutemen whom sole role was to protect and defend against the undefendable. To the last man if it called for it.

As both Imperial men and the enemy befell their unwavering march, the Capital Building became ground zero. Stepping out upon his own as the two forces clashed in eternal battle, The Lieutenant would turn his gaze upon the enemy generals and they would become his targets.

Essentially set up the march toward the Capital Building and entered the fray.

Spoiler: Tags:

@Darasuum @Fantasy Liver @Volene @Interdictor

 

[Dar'baal]

Dar’baal’s mouth was slightly agape as he witnessed first hand the skill of an Imperial Knight defending the Capitol building. They remained on the defensive it seemed for now, allowing the Scion to press the attack. Another six blaster cannon shots, more carefully aimed and fired than the first series, were fired at Magnus’s legs. (@Xan ) The impacts against the ground would kick up dirt and concrete that also ran the risk of disorienting the valiant defender.

The Hutt continued to receive updates on the enemies’ whereabouts as well as kept their positions in mind. The Imperial Knights one kilometer west on the main street were pushing hard to reach the Capitol Building but it would still take them the better part of two minutes as they fought through the syndicate forces. The Hutt had some breathing room to deal with the Knight Thel’riss directly in front of them. The Disparaged were also closing on the Capitol Building quickly with a large force from the south.

By the time Knight Captain Sere had made it within range to use their Force Technique on the Hutt they would notice the Scion had turned to face them with the blaster cannon already taking aim. Dar’baal was aware of the mystic ways of Force sensitives so it was no surprise as the Knight Captain exerted great effort to move the Hutt scion’s mass from his repulsor mount. His hands, including the one still holding his whip, grasped the controls of his sled tightly. The Knight Captain may be surprised at just how heavy a single slug like him was in addition to how strong he was physically. The added weight of the airsled also helped to limit the effectiveness of the Force push. The end result of Merian’s attack would have Dar’baal still remain on top of their airsled but continued to drift rapidly away from the Knight Captain a dozen meters, creating a distance of twenty four meters between them.

Dar’baal fired six blaster cannon shots at the legs of the captain (@Volene ) from their air sled while continuing to back away from Merian in a northeastern direction, maintaining the distance between them if she advances or increasing it if she does not. The Scion’s yellowed slit pupil eyes kept Knight Thel’riss in view just in case the Miraluka go on the offensive.

Spoiler: TL;DR

Dar’baal fires another 6 shots at Magnus’s legs. Any missed blaster cannon shots have a minor exploding effect that kick up the dirt and risk indirectly affecting Magnus.

It was mentioned in post #13 the Imperial Knights are at least 1 kilometer away down Mainstreet. Uninterrupted the IK and accompanying NPCs on foot and through combat will take a minimum of a minute and a half (that’s with full tilt Olympic runners levels of speed) if not longer.

Dar’baal turns to face the Knight Captain before she arrives. He is holds fast against the force push and is subsequently sent drifting back a dozen meters but remains on top of his airsled.

He fires 6 blaster cannon shots at her legs with the same aforementioned effect above and keeps Magnus in sight.

@Interdictor / @Ina'al'ena has timed out.

@Fantasy Liver @Xan @Mythos @Volene @Interdictor

 

[Kyp]

Kyp swore as his target managed to deflect his blaster shot just in time. Well, if blasters wouldn't win the day, it was time to improvise. Waiting for Dar'baal's third shot before shooting, Kyp aimed his wrist at Magnus and fired the mounted rocket built into his armor. The wrist rocket flew forward and would impact a couple of meters directly in front of Magnus. The Imperial would either be forced to retreat backwards or risk dealing with the shrapnel of the rocket.

@Xan @Mythos @Volene @Interdictor @Darasuum

TLDR: Kyp fires a wrist rocket aimed 2 meters ahead of Magnus.

 

[Magnus Thel'riss]

Magnus remained with the Imperial Security, defending the steps of the capitol building with silver lightsaber weaving brilliantly through the air. Predominantly, he was deflecting attacks from the Houk High Tops, figuring that each stun projectile he deflected was an additional shot not aimed at the security forces nearby. However, he kept the Hutt @Darasuum and Mandalorian @Fantasy Liver pair within "eyesight" so to speak, far more concerned about their armaments than those of the Houks. The latter at least had to contend with the security forces, while the former were almost entirely free to plan and aim their shots specifically at him.

It was foresight that Magnus would be glad of, considering the Hutt's next attempt to lay him low with that accursed blaster cannon. Once more, Magnus would waste no time in leaping to his left, away from the security forces in the hopes of averting some potential casualties. Only it seemed that the Hutt was more perceptive than the majority of its kind, because the shots were aimed as much at the ground as Magnus himself. The bits of dirt and concrete being blasted up would interfere with his footing, throwing off Magnus's balance just as he noticed a rocket coming his way.

Acting quickly, Magnus let himself fall to one knee, grabbing his cape with his free hand and pulling it up to cover himself from the explosion as best he could. He was merely fortunate that the explosive was being aimed a slight distance away from him, rather than being aimed dead-center for his chest. The explosion would still send him sprawling backward, and he noted with a wince that his left arm and leg had certainly seen some form of impact. With a grunt, Magnus would push himself up with his uninjured right arm and briefly inspect the damage.

His cape was certainly going to require replacement, having absorbed the brunt of the shrapnel from the rocket. That being stated, it had served its purpose by minimizing the damage done to the remainder of his body. Minor scratches along the upper arm and thigh, along with bruising from the kinetic force and impact from both rocket and subsequent fall. Nothing worth complaining about during pitched battle, though it did give Magnus a new appreciation for his cape.

In any case, there was at least some good news to celebrate, as the Imperial Security forces had undoubtedly noticed. Imperial reinforcements had arrived, both in the form of the oncoming Disparaged @Mythos and the Imperial Knights @Volene . "Reinforcements!" Magnus shouted as he rose from the ground, finally ready to go on the offensive now that the Hutt had more than just the Security forces to contend with. "CHARGE!" He roared to the Imperial Security fighting with him, before running into the oncoming Houks with renewed vigor.

This was no mindless charge however, and Magnus had no intention of fighting the entire Houk force. He was charging in because he wanted a target: the Knight-Captain would undoubtedly be gunning for the Hutt, so he wanted to take their Mandalorian lieutenant. This was something he would make abundantly clear within moments, as after gutting one of the Houk mercenaries, he would point his blade directly towards the Mandalorian themselves as if in challenge.

@Interdictor

Spoiler: Combat Summary

Magnus Force Leaps out of the way of the blaster cannon shots, but the attack threw off his footing so he could not dodge Kyp's rocket. He pulled up his Armourweave Heavy Cape to shield himself from the blast, taking light damage along the left arm and leg from the "bleed through" and further light impact damage from the fall. He is now up and engaging the Houks in glorious melee.